The following citation is quoted from General Order 12 dated 24 February 1945:

"The 391st Bombardment (M) is cited for outstanding performance of duty in action,
against the enemy from 23 to 26 December 1944. On the morning of 23 December 1944, 30
aircraft of the 391st Bombardment Group (M) were dispatched in an attack upon a railroad
viaduct at Ahweiler, Germany. Despite the fact that fighter escort was lacking, and both
the Pathfinder aircraft were forced out of the formation by intense, heavy, and accurate
antiaircraft fire, the formation gallantly continued to the target. Approximately 60 enemy
fighters intercepted the second box of the formation during the bombing run. A violent and
bitter aerial battle ensued and, ignoring the continuous enemy attacks, the second box
bombed the objective with devastating effect. Enemy aircraft now swarmed about the two
boxes, attacking from the rear in waves 4 deep and 15 abreast, while the combat crews of
the 391st Bombardment Group (M) fought magnificently despite the overwhelming odds. Men
who were wounded, remained at their posts and continued firing, and the aircraft shot out
of the sky went down with their guns still blazing at the enemy. In this heroic action the
enemy lost 16 aircraft, and 3 probably destroyed, and 16 so badly damaged that they were
driven from the conflict. That afternoon, despite losses sustained earlier in the day, the
391st Bombardment Group (M) displayed outstanding aggressiveness by preparing in record
time an attack upon the heavily defended village of Nuremberg. Twenty one aircraft were
dispatched and attacked the target with outstanding results. Maintenance personnel worked
feverishly and with untiring zeal. On the following day the 391st Bombardment Group (M)
attacked with 39 aircraft the railroad bridge at Kons Karthaus, Germany. Despite intense,
heavy flak, the bridge was destroyed. During the following 2 days, the group dealt fierce
blows at other strategic enemy bridges, contributing vital assistance to the ground forces
at a most critical time. The inexorable determination, outstanding skill, and unhesitating
courage of the officers and men of the 391st Bombardment Group (M) in so brilliantly
carrying the attack to the enemy, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army
Air Forces."